64 NEBRASKAland • JULY 2016
A
fter a flood control project that started sometime before 1917 and was
completed about 1926 straightened and deepened Logan Creek in northeastern
Nebraska, this waterbody simply became known as "The Dredge" to many.
However, with the creation of public access points at Pender, Bancroft and
Oakland, this scenic paddling location is slowly returning to its original name –
Logan Creek.
In 2011, locals, including Bancroft native John Ross, began working with
organizations (see Sidebar) to provide the access points. "Locals thought that Logan
Creek could give people one more thing to do in the area and bring a few dollars to
these small towns," said Ross. "People have been kayaking and canoeing Logan Creek
for years, but they've always got in and out on private land. Now we have public access
for parking."
With this public access, Ross said, paddlers can expect a leisurely 3-4 hour float
from Pender to Bancroft and 6-8 hours from Bancroft to Oakland. Being less than
two hours from both Omaha and Lincoln, with places for snacks and drinks in each of
these towns, paddlers can spend a full day viewing various bird species including great
horned owls, blue herons and Canada geese, as well as other animals like muskrats,
beavers and white-tailed deer.
"It's a slow, wandering stream," said Ross. "Perfect for the entire family." ■
Paddling Logan Creek
Access points provide new life to kayaking destination.
By Jeff Kurrus
Along the Road
Cathy Simonson (foreground) and Peggy Renz kayak Logan Creek last July. C th Si (f d) d P R k k L C k l t J l
PHOTOS
BY
JEFF
KURRUS
